How long will Vince Wilfork remain with the New England Patriots? Despite the three-year deal he received this week in a reworked contract, it's not as simple a question as it seems.

Wilfork, nose tackle and anchor of the defensive line, was reluctant to accept early team attempts to restructure his contract. But the pact does put him closer to finishing his career with the Pats, something he wants.

Vince Wilfork (AP Photo)

The accord came as Wilfork, 32, entered the final year his contract. In the end, according to MassLive.com, Wilfork and the Pats saved face with the deal. Plus, the Pats got cap relief, believed to be about $3 million. The contract reportedly maxes out at $23 million.

The Patriots do not comment on salaries.

These were not easy talks, he wrote on his Twitter account. Remember, he had asked to be released, a request widely viewed as a negotiating ploy.

"Negotiations are never easy especially when you have a 10 year history with a team and more importantly relationships. For those who have supported me I thank you, for those who have called me every name in the book I thank you too.

"My intentions have never changed. 10 years ago my goal was to retire a patriot and as I sit here typing this I am closer to achieving my goal. I look forward to getting back to football and helping my team compete and have a chance at winning a Super Bowl."

Wilfork succumbed to the wear and tear of his position when he went down with a torn right Achilles' tendon in September. Recover from that injury continues and could prevent him from being ready when the season begins. Anything less than full recovery would pare cash from his salary.

After 2014, things get sketchy for his future. The Pats likely will be in position next March to again wonder whether they should move on from Wilfork.